Cloud Gate Theater Introduction
The Cloud Gate Dance Theatre is an important living cultural asset of Taiwan. Founded by Lin Hwai-min in 1973, the company has become a regular presence at international arts festivals with its unique dance language and works, while witnessing the trajectory of Taiwan's social and historical development. From the inception of Cloud Gate to the completion of the Cloud Gate Theatre, the company has accumulated various perspectives on Cloud Gate throughout different eras, achieving "Cloud Gate for everyone." Over the past 52 years, it has created different relationships between Cloud Gate and society, Cloud Gate and ecology, and Cloud Gate and the world. In 2015, the Cloud Gate Theatre, built with a budget of 700 million TWD raised by the company, was completed and established its home in Tamsui. The theatre is situated in a 1.5-hectare area where it regularly creates and welcomes the public and tourists, showcasing Cloud Gate's history and the historical significance of the former Central Broadcasting Station Tamsui Branch; it regularly presents internationally acclaimed Cloud Gate performances, encourages new creations, and introduces domestic and international artworks, becoming a long-term creative base for Cloud Gate and a stage for many artists. 1. The Background of Cloud Gate Theatre: The History and Transformation of the Broadcasting Station The Central Broadcasting Station Tamsui Branch was established in 1978, with the primary mission of spreading messages about Taiwan's economic prosperity, democratic progress, and freedom overseas. At that time, the station was under the Ministry of National Defense and was named the "Fifth Launching Base of the Central Broadcasting Station." As time went by, the mission of the Tamsui Branch gradually faded, becoming increasingly idle. The historical memories and former role add unique cultural significance. 2. The Completion of Cloud Gate Theatre In 2008, the rehearsal hall of Cloud Gate Dance Theatre located in Bali unexpectedly caught fire, resulting in the loss of years of hard work. With support from various sectors of society, the Cloud Gate Foundation collaborated with the Taipei County (now New Taipei City) government through the "Promotion of Civil Participation in Public Construction Law," and the site was chosen. The Cloud Gate Theatre was completed and opened in 2015. This theatre is not only the first art park built with donations from the private sector in Taiwan but also a green space that blends the old and the new. The theatre is adjacent to the Huwei Fort established after the Qing-French War in 1886 and the historical Tamsui Golf Course with over a century of history. 3. The Architectural Design of Cloud Gate Theatre Designed by architect Huang Sheng-yuan, the Cloud Gate Theatre is not just a building but also considers how to achieve a symbiotic balance between people, nature, and architecture. The theatre is situated in a valley behind the original branch house, preserving the structure and appearance of the original building. The bronze-colored roof resembles floating clouds, while the dark green steel structure and light green energy-efficient glass curtain wall resonate with the surrounding mountain and forest scenery. The extended design of the eaves and abundant natural light create an atmosphere of flowing nature within and outside the building. The original open space is designed as an outdoor performance and relaxation area shared by the community, enabling the theatre to connect with the community. The complex includes a medium-sized theatre with 400 seats, two flexible small theatres, and an outdoor grass stage that can accommodate over a thousand people. 4. The Theatre as a Link Between Art and Community The Cloud Gate Theatre serves as an important base for the creation and rehearsal of Cloud Gate Dance Theatre. Through regular domestic and international art performances, outdoor shows, community activities, and cultural promotion programs, the Cloud Gate Theatre connects the city and rural areas, art and life, making this artistic oasis a cultural asset shared by all.
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